Several key developments in the semiconductor industry have led to the unveiling of the first copper intercon-nect-based devices. As the advantages of copper over aluminum drive the semiconductor industry to the widespread use of copper, a big concern is the cost of developing and sustaining copper-related technologies. Regardless of the materials employed, a significant percentage of semiconductor manufacturing costs goes toward the purchase of test wafers. Since the value of a single wafer containing high-end devices can represent tens of thousands of dollars of potential revenue, the importance of using high-quality test wafers throughout a manufacturing facility to maximize yields is unquestionable.
展开▼